Using Slope to Graph Lines
One can graph a line if we know only its slope and one point on it. First, plot the point. Next, if the slope is a fraction, move to the right the number of spaces equal to the denominator, and move up (or down, if the slope is negative) the number of spaces equal to the numerator. Plot a point at the spot you end up. If the slope is not a fraction, move 1 space to the right and then move up or down the number of spaces equal to the slope. You can also move left the number of spaces in the denominator and down (or up if negative) the number of spaces in the numerator and plot a point at the spot you end up.
Connecting these points with a straight line and extending on both sides yields a line with the desired slope and containing the given point.
Find the slope of the line given by the equation 5y = - 2x + 1
5y = - 2x + 1 (no change)
= - 2/5
m = - 2/5
Slope
In addition to its familiar meaning, the word "slope" has precise mathematical meaning. The slope of a line is the rise over the run, or the change in y divided by the change in x. To find the slope of a line, pick any two points on the line. Then subtract their x-coordinates and subtract their y-coordinates In The Same Order. Divide the difference of the y-coordinates by the difference of the x- coordinates:m = change in y/change in x
I hope this is helpful. If you have any questions, let me know!